Danske Bank launches digital hub in boost for SMEs

Annie Irwin and Oscar Woolley, co-founders of Suki Tea with Richard Caldwell, managing director of Business Banking at Danske Bank

Published:06:00Monday 25 April 2016

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Danske Bank is aiming to provide inspiration and practical advice to the thousands of small businesses in Northern Ireland with the launch of a brand new digital hub.

One of a number of new initiatives to support small businesses, Danske Bank today launched www.danskebizhub.co.uk – a locally produced source of information and practical resources designed to help people navigate the challenges of running a small business, whether they are a seed company, a start-up or an established small business.

Small businesses make up more than 99 per cent of all businesses here and are a key economic driver, accounting for approximately 60 per cent of private sector output and employment.

“Northern Ireland has a rich history of invention and innovation,” said Richard Caldwell, managing director of Business Banking.

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of the economy and we at Danske Bank are keen to support them.

“The rate of growth in the small business sector here, however, is slower than it should be compared to other parts of the United Kingdom.

“There are many potential reasons for this slower than expected growth, with the Federation of Small Businesses identifying concerns like taxation costs, compliance, regulation, business rates and delayed payments. With our new online hub we are aiming to help businesses consider these issues, to encourage more business start-ups and to help existing businesses identify and create opportunities for growth.”

The hub includes interactive business tools, a business blog and videos featuring ideas and insights from other successful local businesses – all designed to help business owners take forward their ideas, build on their own expertise and provide advice on the challenges they face.